Lockheed Martin Successfully Tests Aegis-Equipped Vessel in Live Target Tracking Exercise
Moorestown, N.J. — On March 22, 2026, Lockheed Martin joined U.S. and Japanese partners for a milestone test. The team completed the first live target tracking exercise using the SPY-7 radar.
Exercise summary
The event involved Lockheed Martin, the U.S. Department of War, the Missile Defense Agency, and Japan’s Ministry of Defense. The SPY-7 radar demonstrated search, detection, identification, tracking and discrimination against live targets.
The drill ended with virtual engagements of detected targets. Test equipment used in the exercise matches hardware bound for Japan’s first Aegis System Equipped Vessel.
SPY-7 capabilities
The SPY-7 radar showed advanced detection and tracking performance. It handled multiple, complex targets and supported engagement planning.
- Search and detect live targets.
- Identify and track multiple objects simultaneously.
- Discriminate threats for engagement decisions.
Operational significance
The trial underscored the maturity of the integrated SPY-7 Aegis configuration. Results also validated system readiness for deployment on the ASEV.
Partnership and next steps
Lockheed Martin highlighted close cooperation with U.S. and Japanese defense organizations. Chandra Marshall, vice president of Multi-Domain Combat Solutions, said the outcome affirms system readiness and delivery capability.
The full SPY-7 system, including the end-item hardware used in testing, will be installed on Japan’s ASEV. That installation will become a central element of Japan’s homeland defense posture.
This successful live target tracking exercise advances allied naval defense interoperability. Filmogaz.com reporting notes the Missile Defense Agency supplied images documenting the event.
